Fez , Morocco

Full-day Historical Fez old City Tour

Active

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Your experienced, knowledgeable, (English;french;spanich)-speaking guide with Group Travel Agency. Trips will pick you up from your hotel or riad at 10 am to explore Fes Medina and its souks. You will get to see the world famous tanneries, the oldest university in the world and stunning coranic school, and get a tour of the city walls and the lovely gates that lead in and out of the medina and breathtaking panoramic view of the old city then visit the ceramic factory, the royal palace as well as the Mellah (Jewish quarter).

Available options

Full-day Historical Fez old City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Pick up and drop off

Professional EN- FR speaking Driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The name Bou Jeloud dates from well before the existence of the current gate. By one account, the name is a vernacular corruption of the expression Abu al-Junud ("Father of the troops"), referring to a parade ground or military square, in this case the large square known as Place Bou Jeloud (now also called Place el-Baghdadi) just west of the gate.

Stop 2

The name Bou Inania (Bū 'Ināniya) is derived from the name of its founder, the Marinid sultan Faris ibn Ali Abu Inan al-Mutawakkil (generally Abou Inan or Abu Inan for short).It was originally named the Madrasa al-Muttawakkiliya but the name Madrasa Bu Inania has been retained instead. He was the son and successor of Sultan Abu al-Hasan, under whose reign the Marinid empire reached its apogee and expanded all the way to Tunis in the east.

Stop 3

In the Middle Ages, the University of Al Qarawiyyin played a significant role in the mediation of culture and knowledge between Muslims and Europeans. In the fourteenth century, 8000 students from the Maghreb and Egypt were trained in Fez. The university also played an important role in spreading the teachings of Maliki School, one of four Sunni Islamic sects, which has adopted the doctrine of Imam Malik ibn Anas, in all the regions of North Africa.

Stop 4

The al-Attarine madrasa was built between 1323 and 1325 on the orders of the Marinid sultan Abu Sa'id Uthman II. The supervisor of construction was Sheikh Beni Abu Muhammad Abdallah ibn Qasim al-Mizwar. According to the Rawd el-Qirtas (historical chronicle), the sultan personally observed the laying of the madrasa's foundations, in the company of loca

Chouara Tannery (sometimes spelled Chouwara is one of the three tanneries in the city of Fez, Morocco. It is the largest tannery in the city and one of the oldest. It is located in the Fes el Bali, the oldest medina quarter of the city, near the Saffarin Madrasa along the Oued Fes (also known as the Oued Bou Khrareb). Since the inception of the city, the tanning industry has been continually operating in the same fashion as it did in the early centuries. Today, the tanning industry in the city is considered one of the main tourist attractions. The tanneries are packed with the round stone vessels filled with dye or white liquids for softening the hides. The leather goods produced in the tanneries are exported around the world.

The R'cif Mosque (Arabic: جامع الرصيف; also transliterated as R'sif, Ercif, er-Rsif, or Rasif) is a Friday mosque in Fes el-Bali, the old city (medina) of Fez, Morocco. It has one of the tallest minarets in the city and overlooks Place R'cif in the heart of the medina.

What's not included

entry to the cultural places, Bou Inania Medersa and Al-Attarine Madrasa is 2 Euro

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Fez

Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.

Top Attractions

Fez Medina

The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free to explore, fees for specific sites

Al-Qarawiyyin University

Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.

Historical/Educational 1-2 hours Free

Bou Inania Madrasa

A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.

Historical/Architectural 30-60 minutes Moderate

Chouara Tanneries

One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.

Cultural/Industrial 30-60 minutes Free (donations appreciated)

Bab Bou Jeloud

The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.

Architectural 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.

Dinner Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.

Couscous

Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and nuts.

Harira

A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rif Mountains Horseback riding in the countryside Spa and hammam treatments Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace Exploring the Fez Medina Visiting historic sites and museums Attending traditional music and dance performances Experiencing a traditional hammam

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic, Berber
Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and guides

Getting there

By air

Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Fez Railway Station

By bus

Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fez Medina Fes el Jdid Ville Nouvelle

Day trips

Meknes

60 km • Full day

Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.

Volubilis

80 km • Full day

Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.

Chefchaouen

120 km • Overnight

Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.

Festivals

Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable